Exploring Paris with the Rodin Museum & Seine River Cruise Combo

If you’re planning a day in Paris and want to see some of its most iconic sights without the hassle of booking multiple tickets, this combined experience might just be perfect. It offers a flexible entry to the Rodin Museum alongside a 24-hour hop-on hop-off Seine River cruise, letting you explore at your own pace.
What we love about this combo? First, the chance to enjoy world-famous sculptures like The Thinker and The Kiss in a stunning historic setting. Second, the Seine River cruise provides breathtaking views of landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame from the water—an unforgettable perspective. Lastly, the unlimited hop-on, hop-off feature makes it easy to customize your sightseeing around your rhythm.
A potential drawback? Since the price is relatively modest at $59, some travelers might find the experience a bit basic without guided commentary or additional extras. Still, it’s a fantastic option for those wanting flexibility and value.
This tour suits independent travelers who enjoy exploring at their own pace, families looking for a relaxed day, or anyone wanting a quick, affordable introduction to Paris’s highlights without the fuss of multiple bookings.
You can check if your dates are available here:Good To Know

- Flexible access to the Rodin Museum and Seine River cruise in one convenient package
- Unrestricted hop-on, hop-off service along the Seine for 24 hours
- Iconic sculptures like The Thinker and The Kiss in a beautiful historic mansion
- Stunning views of Paris’s landmarks from the river
- Ideal for travelers seeking value, flexibility, and authentic experiences
- No guided tour included, so self-guided exploration is key
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A Closer Look at the Experience

This experience is built around giving travelers the freedom to see Paris on their own terms. The Rodin Museum is a highlight, displaying the entire collection of Auguste Rodin’s sculptures inside a stunning historic mansion. From the Gates of Hell to The Kiss, these works exemplify the evolution of modern sculpture and are displayed amidst lush gardens, perfect for a relaxed stroll.
Visitors will appreciate the self-guided aspect, allowing you to linger with the artworks or move on when you wish. The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., with last admission at 5:45 p.m., making it easy to plan your visit. Though the price of $59 might seem modest, it includes entry to the museum and a 24-hour Seine River cruise, which is where much of the magic happens.
The Museum Experience
Many reviews mention that the museum’s setting—a beautifully preserved mansion—adds a special touch to the art viewing. The sculptures are displayed in well-maintained indoor spaces and gardens, giving you plenty of opportunities for photos and quiet appreciation. Since there’s no guided commentary, you’ll want to read up on Rodin’s works beforehand or use the QR codes for extra context.
Some visitors mention that the museum’s atmosphere is peaceful, with fewer crowds than other major attractions, especially early in the day. It’s a chance to enjoy art in a more relaxed setting. However, the limited guided support might be a consideration for those wanting more historical background during their visit.
The Seine River Hop-On Hop-Off
The 24-hour Batobus pass is the real highlight for many travelers. It provides unlimited boarding and disembarking at nine stops along the Seine, allowing you to craft your own sightseeing itinerary. From the Invalides to Louvre and Place de la Concorde, each stop offers quick access to major landmarks.
The scenic boat rides are a standout feature. Many reviews praise the stunning views of Paris’s skyline, especially as the sun sets or during daylight. The boat’s open-air decks are perfect for snapping photos, and the gentle glide along the water offers a restful break from walking.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyPractical Details
The meeting point for the museum is at 77 Rue de Varenne, which is a 15-minute walk from the Batobus – Invalides station. The boat cruise is accessible from any of the nine stops, providing flexibility to tailor your day.
The tickets are electronic, allowing easy entry by scanning QR codes or barcodes from your phone. This means no waiting in lines, a huge advantage during busy seasons. The museum is closed on January 1, May 1, and December 25, with early closures on December 24 and 31, so planning ahead is wise.
Travelers under 18 and EU residents under 26 benefit from free entry to the museum with valid ID, which adds value for younger visitors or those traveling on a budget. The cruise offers unlimited rides within the 24-hour window, so you can hop on and off multiple times to explore different neighborhoods.
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Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Start at Musée Rodin
The visit begins at Musée Rodin, where you’ll have about 2 hours to explore at your own pace. As you wander through the rooms and gardens, you’ll encounter masterpieces like The Thinker and The Gates of Hell. Reviewers mention that the sculptures are displayed with care, and the historic mansion adds a sense of timelessness.
Several reviewers appreciate that the museum isn’t overly crowded, especially in the mornings. One noted, “I loved the way the sculptures are arranged in both indoor and outdoor settings—really lets you appreciate the artistry in peace.”
The Seine River Cruise
After the museum visit, you can walk just 15 minutes to the Batobus Invalides stop to begin your river cruise. The 24-hour ticket allows you to hop off at various stops, including Louvre, Place de la Concorde, and Eiffel Tower.
Many reviews mention that the scenic rides give a different perspective of Paris—seeing the city from the water makes familiar landmarks feel new. The boat’s open decks and smooth ride mean you can enjoy the views comfortably, whether you’re snapping photos or just soaking it all in.
Stops Along the Way
Each stop has its own charm. The Louvre is, of course, a must-see with its pyramid and historic surroundings. Place de la Concorde offers a panoramic view of the Seine and the Tuileries Garden. The Eiffel Tower stop puts you within easy reach of the iconic monument, perfect for climbing or taking photos.
The scenic views along the river are often praised, especially during sunset or at night when the city lights shimmer on the water. Reviewers mention that the unlimited boarding makes it simple to explore different neighborhoods without feeling hurried.
Price and Value
At $59 per person, this experience offers exceptional value for a day of flexible sightseeing. The museum entry is included, along with a seamless river cruise, making this a budget-friendly way to see many highlights without expensive guided tours.
While it doesn’t include guided commentary, you’ll love the freedom to explore as you wish. The self-guided format means you can linger in spots that catch your eye or move quickly through places you’re less interested in.
Reviewers note that the cost might seem modest compared to other organized tours, but the quality of the views and the convenient access makes it well worth it. It’s especially appealing for travelers who prefer discovering on their own rather than being part of a large guided group.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This combo is ideal for independent explorers who want to maximize their time in Paris without the complexity of multiple bookings. It’s great for families, as the self-guided approach lets everyone move at their own pace.
If you enjoy scenic boat rides and want an affordable way to see the city’s most famous sights, this is a smart choice. Those who appreciate art in peaceful settings will love the Rodin Museum, while water lovers will find the Seine cruise equally captivating.
On the other hand, travelers who seek guided commentary or in-depth historical context might find this experience a bit light on narration. It’s more about the visual experience and flexibility than guided storytelling.
Final Thoughts

This Paris experience combines culture, art, and scenic views into one easy-to-manage package. The museum provides a quiet, contemplative space filled with remarkable sculptures, while the Seine River cruise gives a relaxing way to see the city’s skyline from the water. The unlimited hop-on hop-off feature means you can tailor your day, making it perfect for those who like to explore without strict schedules.
Value-wise, it’s hard to beat the $59 price point for a full day of artistic and scenic exploration. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a relaxed, flexible, and budget-conscious way to enjoy Paris’s highlights.
If you’re looking for a balance of cultural appreciation and scenic beauty—without the fuss of guided tours or multiple tickets—this experience checks all the boxes.
FAQ

How do I access the museum and cruise?
The museum is at 77 Rue de Varenne and is accessed by scanning your mobile ticket QR code. The boat cruise can be boarded from any of the nine stops along the Seine, with tickets ready on your phone.
Is the museum close to the Seine boat stops?
Yes, the Rodin Museum is just a 15-minute walk from the Batobus Invalides station, making it convenient to transfer between the two.
Can I visit the museum on the same day I take the cruise?
Absolutely, your ticket includes both and is valid for 24 hours, giving you plenty of flexibility to combine the two activities.
Are there restrictions on luggage or bags?
Yes, large bags or luggage are not allowed. Only small backpacks can be taken into the museum.
Are there any days when the museum is closed?
The museum is closed on January 1, May 1, and December 25. On December 24 and 31, it closes early.
How long should I plan for the museum visit?
Most visitors spend about 2 hours exploring the sculptures and gardens.
Is there any guided commentary included?
No, this is a self-guided experience. For additional insights, you might consider reading up on Rodin’s work beforehand.
Can EU residents under 26 enter for free?
Yes, with valid ID, visitors under 26 from the EU can enter free of charge.
Can I hop off and on the Seine cruise multiple times?
Yes, your 24-hour ticket allows unlimited boarding and disembarking at the stops along the Seine.
What’s the overall value of this experience?
At $59, it offers excellent value for a day of art, scenic views, and flexible sightseeing, especially considering the convenience of combined tickets.
To sum it up, this combination of the Rodin Museum and Seine River cruise offers a practical, affordable, and flexible way to enjoy Paris’s highlights. It’s perfect for those who want to see iconic sights with minimal fuss, embracing the city’s charm at their own pace. Whether you’re an art lover, a water enthusiast, or simply looking for a seamless way to explore, this experience ticks many boxes—just remember to plan around the museum’s schedule and enjoy your day in the City of Light.
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